Updates from the Emergency Response Unit of Food for the Hungry

FH’s Emergency Response Unit Responds to Fire in Shashego, Ethiopia

A fire broke out in Shashego district in the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples’ Regional State of Ethiopia on Feb 6th 2012. The houses of 23 families with whom FH has worked over the years were completely burnt down, together with household furniture, utensils, food and money. The government estimated over $113,000 in property was lost for these families – which is devastating in such a small community. After the fire they were living under plastic sheets and canvass, so through partnership with the local leadership of the community FH decided to support the reconstruction of their homes.

Fig. 1, Supply of Iron Sheet

With a $10,000 grant from the Emergency Response Unit, FH Ethiopia provided supplies such as corrugated iron sheets and nails for construction of houses, while other partners and the local government provided food, clothes and wood for construction. The partnership, distribution and construction was managed and supervised by a joint team of local leaders and FH staff.

Fig. 2, House under Construction

Currently 15 households are finishing their foundations and walls. Overall progress is good and completion is expected within a couple of weeks. Family and community members have expressed their gratitude for the support they have experienced through the kindness and generosity of the partnership initiated by FH.